IT’S A
RECORD
Blue Mountains residents sweltered through unprecedented heat
last weekend, with a new all-time high temperature record set in
Springwood. The top temperature of 44.6 degrees on Saturday
beat the previous record, set in January 2013, by 0.5 degrees
and obliterated the February record by five degrees. Residents
headed to cool locations like Glenbrook Swimming Centre
(pictured) to cool down throughout the day.

BUSKING
MISSION
Personal campaign
to make a difference
See page 5

Greg Bidlow and his children Max and Lilly
cool down at Glenbrook Swimming Centre
on Saturday. Photo: Melinda Jane

FOX BACK
ON THE WATER
Local athlete
ready to shine
See page 32
ADVERTISEMENT

hop owners at Blaxland Shopping
Centre are sick and tired of parking
issues at the complex.
With the Lower Mountains Family Practice opening over six months ago many
shop owners believe that they are losing
customers because of the limited amount
of parking and the layout of the car park.
Owner of Kate’s Just Gorgeous, Kate
Lederthoug, said the car park has always
caused problems with delivery trucks
blocking vehicles and train commuters
leaving their cars there all day.
“One of the biggest issues is the trucks
coming in and out to deliver stock,” Mrs
Lederthoug said.
“There is no loading zone so they just
park in the car park, blocking cars in.”
Ward 4 Councillor Brendan Christie said
the car park has been a serious issue for far
too long.
“I sat down with every business in the
centre three weeks before the election and
every single one had an issue with the car

S

park and said they were losing revenue,”
Cr Christie said.
“Not only is the congestion a serious
safety issue but it makes the centre difficult to access, which impacts on our small
businesses.”
Cr Christie said he has raised the issue at
Council over the years and waiting for the
Blaxland Masterplan is not good enough.
“We need urgent intermediary solutions
to the parking while the Masterplan is
done before Blaxland loses more small
businesses and more local jobs,” Cr Christie said.
A spokesperson from Blue Mountains
City Council said that Council recognises
there are some issues with the Blaxland
Shopping Centre car park, but said there
were no capacity problems.
“While the capacity of the car park
does not appear to be an issue the vehicle
circulation is somewhat awkward,” the
spokesperson said.
Council re-enforced that they have
committed to making the car park a
key consideration in the Blaxland Town
Centre Masterplan which is in the consultation phase.

Business owner Kate Lederthoug is concerned about parking issues
After receiving correspondence from
shop owners asking for short term
improvements, Council recently modified
the roadway between the rear of Newington Mall and the public car park to be one
way only with corresponding give-way

signage, to improve traffic flow in the car
park area.
Council also proposed a review of the
car park time limits from two hours to one
hour but this was not favoured by shop
owners.

Roads

Get ready to pay: Mountains residents set to be hit with new M4 toll
ERIN MAMO

lue Mountains residents could be
paying tolls again on the M4 Motorway between the Blue Mountains
and Sydney by the middle of this year.
While Penrith MP Stuart Ayres, who
was recently sworn in as the Minister
for WestConnex, said that the M4 from
Lapstone to Parramatta will continue to
be free, it’s still not clear whether drivers
will have to pay a toll between Parramatta
and Concord.
“As our new Premier, Gladys Berejiklian
said, the Government will be considering
its options for tolling as the project develops,” Mr Ayres said.
Mr Ayres said he stated from the outset

B

that road users can expect to have a
benefit if they are to pay a toll.
“People in western Sydney are sick and
tired of being stuck on congested roads
and the Government is getting on with
making much-needed improvements,”
Mr Ayres said.
“When complete, WestConnex will
direct tens of thousands of trucks and
small vehicles off surface roads into
underground tunnels which will significantly reduce congestion on key routes
like Parramatta and Victoria Road.”
Blue Mountains MP Trish Doyle, who
believes the toll is not far off, visited
Springwood’s Service NSW last week to
get a new e-tag and said there will be a lot
of Blue Mountains residents who will need
to do the same soon.

“There will be a lot of Blue Mountains
residents like myself who did not have
an e-tag and if the Liberal Government
decided to put a toll levy on a publicly
owned road it means everyone using the
road will need to pay,” Ms Doyle said.
Ms Doyle then went onto say that it was
“theft” to charge a toll levy on a publicly
owned road.
“The people of New South Wales own
this motorway,” she said.
“For the Government to levy a toll on
our road and hand that money to a private
company is basically theft and Minister
for WestConnex, Stuart Ayres will now be
remembered by the Blue Mountains as the
Minister for toll roads.”
If a toll is brought into effect at Homebush where the Government has installed

Trish Doyle
a gantry which is currently being tested,
motorists travelling from the Blue Mountains to Sydney can now expect to pay
$8.42 for a round trip, significantly adding
to yearly commuter costs.

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A little over six months ago Cory
Bernardi was elected to the Senate as a
member of the Liberal Party.
It’s fair to say that many of those who
voted for him did so because of the party
he represented, not the man himself.

Therefore it is nothing short of disgraceful and disloyal of Mr Bernardi to jump
ship from the Liberals last week to start
his own political party.
Mr Bernardi should resign.
If he no longer believes he can repre-

sent the party that he was part of when
elected, then he shouldn’t be in Parliament — it’s that simple.
Mr Bernardi needs to step aside, and
then contest the next election on his own
platform and with his own party funds.

ydney singer Mel Yeates is on a one
woman campaign to raise money for
depression and she is coming to the
Mountains to drum up support.
When Ms Yeates was 15 she lost her closest friend in a freak accident and suffered
extreme depression and anxiety in the
aftermath.
“I lost my best friend in a camping
accident – a tree fell on the tent she was
sleeping in and killed her instantly,” Ms
Yeates said.
“It was the worst year of my life.
“I became very depressed and remember
my mum taking me to see a number of
counsellors and therapists, none of who
understood me.”
Now, the singer has teamed up with
beyondblue and is planning to busk
around Australia in an attempt to raise
$100,000 to help people who may be going
through something similar.
Ms Yeates said she was inspired to take
on the challenge by Aussie actor Samuel
Johnson, who started a similar campaign
when his sister was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer.
“In 2013, Samuel Johnson cycled almost
16,000 kilometers around Australia on a

S

unicycle and raised more than $1.5 million
for cancer research,” Ms Yeates said.
“I was so inspired by his achievement
that last year I picked up my guitar and
hear I am.”
Having now travelled throughout country Victoria and Canberra, Ms Yeates has
already raised just short of $27,000.
“I’m going to give it my best to get to
$100,000,” she said.
“I know it will take a long time, but I just
want to make a difference.”
As part of her busking escapade, Ms
Yeates will be busking around Katoomba’s
main streets, including out the front of
Coles.
On March 9, she will be performing at
Katoomba Family Hotel from 7pm, and
on March 10 at the Alexandra Hotel, Leura
from 5pm.
beyondblue CEO Georgie Harman said
Ms Yeates has already raised such a significant amount of money for the charity.
“It’s efforts like this that enable beyondblue to provide support services and
programs for people affected by depression, anxiety and suicide and their families around the country,” Ms Harman said.
beyondblue is now urging locals to get
behind Ms Yeates.
To donate, visit Ms Yeates’ Go Fund Me
page at gofundme.com/gcgmy.

lue Mountains parents are being
urged not to let their children fall
into the ‘digital zombie’ effect when
it comes to the amount of screen time they
have.
Released at the start of every school year,
NBN’s Digital Parenting Report reveals
key trends on how Aussie children use the
Internet for learning as well as insights
into how parents feel about it.
This year, the report found the majority
of parents (74 per cent) agree that digital
skills and access to fast broadband are key
in order to best prepare their children for
the future workforce, while half worry
their children are spending too much time
online.
Children’s Technology and Learning
Expert, Dr Kristy Goodwin, said it’s
important to ensure your child is actively
engaging with the technology.
“It’s important for parents to encourage
their kids to be actively involved rather
than just consuming what they’re looking
at,” she said.
“Instead of allowing them to passively
consume... look for educational content
like videos and podcasts – parents don’t
need to fret that being online is necessarily bad.”
Dr Goodwin added that worrying about

B

Local toddler Eli using an interactive
learning app. Photo: Melinda Jane
their child being online is a little outdated.
“There are ways around having your
child sitting their consuming technology mindlessly to having them use it for
educational purposes,” she said.
“Parents should look at what the child is
doing online and consider when they are
using it.”
Dr Goodwin suggests looking at
podcasts, creating multimedia products,
and for the child to learn about coding.
How do you control digital use in your
house? Email your views to news@bluemountainsrecord.com.au.

COMPILED BY ERIN MAMO

Huntsman to blame for fourcar pile up at Blaxland

About 10:45am on Sunday, February 5,
a serious four-car accident occurred at
the intersection of Leyton Avenue and
the Great Western Highway, Blaxland.
A 65-year-old male from Fairfield was
driving his car when a huntsman spider
fell from the roof onto his head causing
him to swerve into the westbound lanes
of the highway and collide with another
vehicle, which then spun and collided
with two more vehicles.
The driver of vehicle one suffered a
serious broken leg and the passenger, a
67-year-old female visiting from Poland,
suffered internal injuries and a serious
fracture to her hand.
Both were conveyed to Westmead
Hospital.
Two children aged six and three in vehicle two were conveyed to Westmead
Children’s Hospital with bruising and
severe whiplash.
The adults from vehicles two and
three were conveyed to Nepean Hospital with injuries, while the occupants of
vehicle four, from the Blaxland area, did
not suffer any injuries.

Elderly bike rider dies of heat
exhaustion at Woodford

About 9:30am on Tuesday, January 31
an 89-year-old male from Randwick was
located deceased on The Oaks Fire Trail,
Woodford adjacent to The Wheel Dam
Fire Storage.
It is understood the male had been

bike riding the Oaks Fire Trail when he
suffered from heat exhaustion and collapsed and died.

Extreme heat sparks three
separate bush rescues

On Saturday, February 4, there were
three rescue incidents involving bushwalkers.
The first incident occurred at Megalong Valley and involved RAAF Cadets
from Richmond Air Base being assisted
out from The Six Foot Track. Many of
the walkers were dehydrated due to the
severe weather conditions.
The second incident occurred at the
Sublime Point Fire Trail and involved
a bushwalker from Croydon suffering
from heat exhaustion. Police Rescue
located the walker and drove her out of
the Valley.
The third incident occurred at Kedumba Valley when a group of five bushwalkers from the Mt Druitt area suffered
heat exhaustion and dehydration.
Rescue Operators drove into the
Kedumba Valley and met the group,
providing them with water before driving them out of the valley.
The rescues have prompted a timely
warning, with Springwood Police reminding bushwalkers and riders to have
adequate water supplies when embarking on walks around the Mountains area
during hot weather, and to consider
whether it is appropriate to embark
on strenuous activity during extreme
whether events.

arnardos Western Region Auxiliary members are inviting the
public to take part in their fashion
parade fundraiser to snap up a bargain on
Monday, February 27.
This year’s summer parade will be held
at St Andrew’s Church Hall, on the corner
of Lucasville Rd and Green St, Glenbrook.
“We run two fashion parades each year,
and have done for the last fifteen years or
so,” President Jill King said.
“They are a great source of both local
publicity for Barnardos and funds for our
purchases of food, among other bits and
pieces.”
The clothing, which has been supplied
by Stafford Ladies Fashions, runs from
size 8 to 24 with discounts of up to 50 per
cent.
“We spend all the money that we make
on emergency food every month and the
Christmas hampers,” Treasurer John
Kelaher said.
“In the lower Blue Mountains, Barnardos
has some clients who are grandparents
who are fostering.
“Older people need assistance, especially if they’re on a pension and suddenly
find themselves looking after children.”
The sales from the day will go towards
helping Barnardos clients in the Blue

B

Penrith Courthouse
ALENA HIGGINS

Leura resident accused of drug
supply has been granted strict
conditional bail.
Christopher Brian Watling faced Penrith
Local Court via video link earlier this
month charged with ‘deem supply’.
The court heard the Queens Road
resident was found with a bag containing
three grams of drugs.
“It has the flavour of a user/dealer
situation in my submission,” the Crown
prosecutor said.
However Magistrate Roger Clisdell was

A

unable to conclude whether the drugs
were for trafficking, noting Mr Watling’s
record showed he was a “big user”.
The accused was ordered to report
daily to Katoomba police, not to take any
drugs unless prescribed by a doctor and
to undergo urinalysis multiple times per
week.
He was bailed to his current Leura
address, in lieu of his mother who lives in
Byron Bay.
“Byron Bay is a bit too close to Nimbin
for my liking,” Magistrate Clisdell said.
“We’ll keep you down in Leura so we
can keep an eye on you.”
He is due back in court on March 17.

the blue mountains record » Tuesday, February 14, 2017

Crime

Local Barnardos members John Kelaher,
Jill King, Dorothy Weber and Meg Scutts
with Barnardos staff Renee Gauci and
Carly Karaos. Photo: Melinda Jane
Mountains and Penrith region through
their Cranebrook centre.
The event costs $7.50 for lunch plus
entry to the parade and sale, with a lucky
door prize and trading table.
Clothes will be available for inspection
from 10am, while the parade kicks off at
11am.

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Tuesday, February 14, 2017 « the blue mountains record

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9
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8

Fading memories no match for love
Husbands show the true meaning of Valentine’s Day with eternal love and devotion for their brides
ERIN MAMO

his Valentine’s Day, Peter Swindell
and Keith Davies will be doing the
same thing that they have being
doing every day for the last two years,
visiting and caring for their wives who
have Alzheimer’s Disease.
In January 2015, both Joyce Swindell and
Beverly Davies moved to Movern Gardens
Retirement Village in Leura after their
Alzheimer’s progressed.
Now, their doting husbands, both 75,
travel to Movern Gardens every day to
help feed, care and spend time with their
brides.
Mr Swindell, who has been married to
Joyce for 54 years, said she is a clever lady
who in her younger years was the Assistant General Manager of Sydney’s iconic
Opera House.
As well as Alzheimer’s, Mrs Swindell has
Vascular Dementia, which means she has
sudden changes in her personality.
Mr Swindell said while the conversation
is limited now between himself and his
spouse, he knows she still recognises him.
“She still gives me a smile most days,” Mr
Swindell said.
For Mr Swindell, traditions run deep on

Valentine’s Day.
“We will have a nice lunch here at
Movern and I will buy Joyce the same
perfume I buy her each year,” he said.
“It’s her favourite perfume – she has
always loved the smell.”
Keith Davies met his sweetheart, Beverly,
while they were both teaching at a school
in Western Australia 53 years ago.
Mr Davies said while Alzheimer’s has
well and truly affected Beverly, she is still
her lovely and caring self.
“Beverly has had Alzheimer’s for almost
12 years, but she is still able to walk around
and do things,” Mr Davies said.
“Sometimes she will get confused and
ask me, ‘where’s Keith?’.”
While Mr Davies still buys Mrs Davies
flowers and a card for Valentine’s Day each
year, he said they never really made a big
fuss on February 14.
“It’s nice to show someone you care
about them all year around, not just on
Valentine’s Day,” he said.
Lifestyle Coordinator at Movern Gardens,
Nelly Campbell, said it’s important Alzheimer’s patients are shown affection.
“The feelings never leave,” she said.
“Our patients might not have memories
but they respond really well to love and
companionship.”

We’re used to the dangers of bushfires in the Blue Mountains but
one of the worst ever was in December 1951. At least 80 homes
were lost, with a ‘bushfire emergency’ declared in the Mountains
for the first time in history.

prize cupboard

L

Scott
Pollock
Wentworth Falls
OCCUPATION: Manager, Everglades
Historic House and Gardens, Leura.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT YOUR
JOB: Other than working at one
of the most beautiful gardens in
Australia, I do love working with the
volunteers. We have about 70 volunteers and honestly the property
wouldn’t operate without them.
FAVOURITE RESTAURANT: I would
have to say Silks Brasserie, Leura.
FAVOURITE CAFÉ: Too many to
choose from. I’d say I have a favourite one in each village all the way up
the Mountain.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN THE
MOUNTAINS IN YOUR SPARE TIME:
When I get the time, I’ll go riding
in the Megalong Valley with my
horses. I also like to bushwalk and
visit galleries.

ove is nothing if not an adventure; so this
year forget the roses and chocolates and put a
unique spin on Valentine’s Day with Jetpack
Adventures.
Located at the Sydney International Regatta
Centre, Jetpack Adventures offers thrill seekers the chance
to take your love sky high with their backpack units which
use water to propel you into the air.
With instructors to guide you through the process, and a
five point safety harness, even the most nervous beginner
will feel a sense of confidence as they embrace their inner
James Bond.
So give your loved one a Valentine’s Day to remember
with Jetpack Adventures.
For more information, visit www.jetpackadventures.
com.au.
The Record has three Jetpack Adventures vouchers
to give away. For your chance to win one, email the code
word ‘JETPACK’ to competitions@bluemountainsrecord.
com.au with your name and contact details. Entries close
Thursday, February 16. Authorised under NSW Permit
Number LTPM/16/00054. For terms and conditions,
telephone the Blue Mountains Record reception on 4722
2998.

Lady Gaga’s performance at the recent
Super Bowl was out of this world. She not
only performed brilliantly, but resisted
the temptation to make any unnecessary
political statement.

When you make the decision to agree
to host a breakfast radio program, you
need to make sure you get up on time.
2DayFM’s Em Rusciano missed half of
last Monday’s show because she slept in.

Dose of
Dorin

TAKE A NUMBER

26

With such hot conditions
over the weekend, energy
experts and officials were
urging us to keep our air
conditioners on 26 degrees. A
nice thought, but we reckon
most people defied that as the
temperatures soared across
the weekend. Power supplies
certainly struggled to keep up
with demand due to the hot
conditions.

10

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@bluemtnsrecord

the blue mountains record » Tuesday, February 14, 2017

2017
Principal
Meet the

SPRINGWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

Phone 4751 2111

Dr Mark Howie is a highly experienced and award-winning teacher, school leader and professional representative. His
experiences affirm his commitment to fairness, equity, difference, diversity and excellence in the service of exemplary
educational outcomes for students and professional uplift for teachers.
Springwood High School is creating the generations of the future. All that we do is underpinned
by a passion for making a difference in our students’ lives and achievements.
The school is proudly comprehensive in nature and purpose. Our touchstones are:
Excellence – academic and personal excellence within a nurturing and inclusive environment in
which the individual is recognised and valued;
Creativity – promoting originality and value in thought and action through the powers of
the imagination, self and communal expression, critical thinking and problem solving, and
technology;
Success – educating and supporting our students to the far reaches of their capacities so that they
may succeed at school and in life.
Springwood High School students are enabled to press onward to the heights of achievement,
fulfilment and reward in all that they do. We believe that all our students can succeed, and will
do so through the informed, expert and committed provision of challenge and support.

“I am proud to be moving into my fifth year as Principal at Blue Mountains Steiner School”
The pedagogical practices used at Blue Mountains Steiner School give our students a unique creative edge in life-long
learning.
Creative arts, outdoor education, and music are richly presented and integrated into our academic curriculum preparing
students for the high school of their choice.
The leadership and pastoral care program strengthen relationships across the grades and
instils trust and security in each student which engenders confidence and resilience.
“I love that parents and students both past and present continue to be part of our vibrant
community, enriching our wonderful school.”
Prospective parents are warmly invited to attend a tour of our school with the Principal,
Lisa O’Donnell on Friday, 24 March at 9am. Please call the school to book in on 4758 6044.
Our Open Day and Autumn Fair will be held on Saturday, 6 May (see website soon for
more details).

Phone 4736 8100

Penrith Anglican College was established in 1998 with a clear vision – to encourage students to live lives of purpose and to serve others
through Christ. That founding vision remains at the heart of the College with Mr Mark Lewis joining as Headmaster in 2015, continuing
our reputation for academic and personal excellence through Christ.
Penrith Anglican College is a Pre-K to Year 12 co-educational college set in a modern campus at the foot
of the Blue Mountains, with state of the art facilities providing spaces for students to learn and grow.
An education at Penrith Anglican College is characterised by a progressive approach to learning, where
our students are encouraged to imagine and prepare for a bright future.
We are dedicated to helping each student learn, achieve and progress toward their individual academic
and personal excellence.
Penrith Anglican College is committed to fostering global understanding in their students and therefore
also offers to students in Years 11 and 12 the choice of either the International Baccalaureate or the HSC.

To book a College tour or get further information, please visit www.penrith.nsw.edu.au or contact our
Registrar on 4736 8100 or at registrar@pac.nsw.edu.au.

11

Tuesday, February 14, 2017 ÂŤ the blue mountains record

Matthew Jacobson

WSON
LA

P

U

BL

IC SCHO

O

L

Jennifer Boyall

Cathy Clark

Lawson
Public School

Katoomba
High School

Katoomba North
Public School

www.lawson-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

www.katoomba-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

www.katoombanorth-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

T

Moira McNair

Mount Victoria
Public School
www.Mountvictoria-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

he Upper Blue Mountains Learning Community
of schools is committed to providing high quality
teaching and learning. We provide engaging and
challenging learning experiences in a positive and supportive
learning environment.
Creative and Performing Arts and sporting programmes
are highly valued. Opportunities for performances and
inter-school activities occur throughout the year. Specialist
teachers and classes are available for gifted and talented
students as well as those students with disabilities or
learning difficulties.
Our high quality Public Education provides for all students
enabling a productive and rewarding life in an educated, just
and open society.
The Upper Blue Mountains Learning Community aims
for school improvement and growth to be built around
developing strong school communities focused on mutual
respect, a shared purpose, trust and cooperation all within
motivating, safe and happy schools.
Central to this is building the capacity of staff to develop
as a strong professional learning community, who are
empowered, work in teams, plan collaboratively, coach and
share pedagogy.
Our schools are KidsMatter Schools. KidsMatter is a mental
health and wellbeing framework for primary schools and is
proven to make a positive difference to the lives of Australian
children.
KidsMatter provides the methods, tools and support to
help each of our schools work with parents and carers,
health services and the wider community, to nurture happy,
balanced kids.
As a learning community, we aim to develop a wholeschool approach to improving childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mental health and
wellbeing for primary schools. We plan and take action to
be a positive community - one that is founded on respectful
relationships, a sense of belonging and inclusion, promoting
social and emotional learning, working authentically with
parents, carers and families.

Miriam Treton (relieving)

Megalong
Public School
www.megalong-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

Melinda Williams

Hazelbrook
Public School

Wentworth Falls
Public School

www.hazelbrook-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

www.wentworthfalls-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

Fiona Paine

Jane Davies

Katoomba
Public School

Blackheath
Public School

www.katoomba-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

www.blackheath-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

Nathan Smith

WW26596

12

Ley Wighton

Leura
Public School
www.leura-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

the blue mountains record » Tuesday, February 14, 2017

ADVERTORIAL

Blue Mountains
Catholic Schools

ur Catholic schools in the Blue Mountains offer
families an affordable, quality faith-based education for children from Kindergarten to Year 12.
With schools at Katoomba, Lawson, Springwood and
Glenbrook we provide a comprehensive education underpinned by our Catholic faith, ensuring students develop
their full potential and are well placed to contribute to
society in a meaningful way.
To respond to the diversity of needs, interests and
abilities of students, we provide a broad curriculum and
multiple learning pathways using contemporary teaching
methods and learning technologies.
Catholic schools foster close collaboration and partnership with students and teachers, parents and our parishes
to ensure learning is personalised, relevant and meaningful to students.

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Mrs Lisa Samojlowicz

Our Lady of the
Nativity Primary
School
7 Somers Street
Lawson

www.olonlawson.catholic.edu.au

Mr Sergio Rosato

St Thomas Aquinas
Primary School
168 Hawkesbury Road
Springwood

www.staspringwood.catholic.edu.au

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Mr Paul Ryan

Mr Mark Geerligs

Mrs Donna McFadzean

St Columba’s
Catholic College

St Canice’s Catholic
Primary School

St Finbar’s Primary
School

168 Hawkesbury Road
Springwood

158 Katoomba Street
Katoomba

Levy Street
Glenbrook

www.stcolumbasspringwood.catholic.edu.au

www.stcaniceskatoomba.catholic.edu.au

www.stfinbarsglenbrook.catholic.edu.au

13

Tuesday, February 14, 2017 « the blue mountains record

SPECIAL FEATURE
EDUCATION

More schools
are on the way
ore high quality schools will be
delivered under draft planning
reforms to address the increasing
enrolments caused by the state’s strong
population growth.
Education
Minister
Rob
Stokes
(pictured), Planning Minister Anthony
Roberts and Early Childhood Education
Minister Sarah Mitchell released the draft
State Environmental Planning Policy
(SEPP) Educational Establishments and
Child Care Facilities for community
consultation.

M

The draft SEPP will streamline approvals processes for delivery of new and
improved schools as well as childcare
facilities, universities and TAFEs.
A draft design guide for schools created
by the Government Architect and a
draft planning guideline for child care
facilities are also included in the draft
planning reforms package.
“These proposed improvements will
make it easier to deliver well designed
high quality schools where they are
required,” Mr Stokes said.
“The Government and Non-Government school sectors will welcome the
opportunity to work with the community as they continue to meet the challenge of increasing student enrolments.”
He said the NSW Government is
committed to providing high quality
educational environments that nurture
our younger children and support the
learning needs of every student.
“We need to invest in child care and
educational facilities to foster young
minds, to educate and train our future
leaders and innovators and deliver a
skilled workforce,” Mr Stokes said.
Planning Minister Anthony Roberts
said the draft SEPP would ensure the
education needs of Sydney and other
parts of the state are met in the years
ahead.
For more information and to make
submissions, please visit www.planning.nsw.gov.au/educationandchildcare
or www.planning.nsw.gov.au.

McCARTHY CATHOLIC COLLEGE
The community of McCarthy Catholic College is pleased to welcome the
new Principal Tania Cairns to the college. With extensive experience in the
leadership of Catholic schools at both
school and Catholic Education Diocesan level, she has developed a sound
philosophy on improving education
that is inclusive for all students and
empowers students to take responsibility for their learning. In each
school that Tania has been part of
the school leadership, there has been
a clear direction to prepare students
for an exciting and challenging future
post school. As a result, the focus and mission is to develop young people who are well equipped with key skills for real life challenges, as
well as values to encourage future success and well-being. McCarthy is
a unique school with both a Trade Training Centre and a conventional
school to complete the traditional HSC. Gospel values are demonstrated
through our modelling of our core values of integrity, justice and peace
in our social justice work with Vinnies Van and other community support initiatives. We are therefore well placed to meet the needs of a wide
range of students in this co-educational college.

14

FINANCE
MATTERS

Personal
insurance is
paramount

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to visualise.
Although not a topic that
fills many people with excitement, personal insurance
is an incredibly important
issue and deserves a genuine discussion within every
household. Why? Well sadly,
it seems to be one of those
products that no one really
wants, until of course they
suddenly need it, but by then
it is usually too late.

I can recall countless occasions whilst an adviser,
of people coming to me for
insurance cover as a result of
just receiving a serious medical diagnosis. Unfortunately
for them, insurance companies don’t act retrospectively
and sadly there was absolutely no way of helping.
There are generally four
main types of personal insurance you need to look at. The
most common is Term Life
Insurance which pays a lump
sum on death. Next is Total
and Permanent Disability
(TPD) which again is a lump
sum, paid when you are
classified as unable to ever
work again because of illness
or injury. Trauma Insurance,
which covers you when you
survive one of a specified
number of medical traumas,
and finally Income Protection
which pays you 75% of your
income whilst you are off
work for illness or injury.
Each one of these insurances serves a different purpose
and can be combined or
taken separately as required,
but remember it is always
best practice to consult with
a licensed professional to
ensure you are getting exactly
what you need.
So spend some time this
weekend having a close look
at your insurance situation –
washing the Camry will just
have to wait.

Phone 4735 3211
will have opportunities to be immersed with our industry partners and
learn new 21st century skills, such as collaboration and problem solving
in industry based teams and situations. We are very fortunate to have
the opportunity to set up such unique programs that will lead to connections with future employers. We are the only Catholic school selected in
NSW to be offering the P-TECH elective program.
As Principal of McCarthy Catholic College, I am always looking for
ways to improve learning for students and our focus will always be the
students at the centre in all that we do. The school has developed clear
policies for engaging students and has a culture of constant improvement. The HSC results reflect this improvement and we have enjoyed
some outstanding results from both boys and girls. Our Trade Training Centre (TTC) results have enabled students to transition very easily
from school to a variety of post school options with specific industry
based qualifications as they exit school. The extracurricular life of the
school is strong with sport representation at local, state and national
level showing excellence all round. McCarthy is the only catholic school
which now offers Rowing for both girls and boys and will build this
challenging sport through expert coaching and commitment.
Tania Cairns and the staff at McCarthy Catholic College are excited
about the transformation of the college reflecting the needs of 21st century learners and are committed to providing high quality education
to girls and boys of the lower Blue Mountains and
Greater Penrith region. McCarthy Is a school on
the move with exciting new initiatives to meet the
needs of your sons and daughters in a fast paced
changing world.
Enrolments are now open for 2018 and we welcome
all applicants to our wonderful school. I invite you
to contact Sharon Clarke at the college for a personal tour with our student leaders.

McCarthy Catholic College is a school ‘on the move’ staying abreast
of changes in contemporary learning practices that engage and excite
learners of today such as STEM and Flipped Learning. The college has
invested resources into the development of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) programs across a range of learning areas
that will enable them to access this part of the learning in very engaging
ways. As well as this, the College has been selected by Commonwealth
government as a P-TECH school which means students in Year 9 and 10

Adrian

Lacaze

I recently read a report
about the huge level of under
insurance in Australia. An
often overlooked area of the
family finances, it seems
many people are either not
wanting to spend money
on something that doesn’t
provide immediate benefit, or
remain oblivious to the financial effects a serious accident
or death can have within a
family. Strangely though,
99.9% of people seem to
have no qualms ‘forking’ out
money for car insurance,
which would suggest the
consequences of losing the
1998 Toyota Camry is easier

A small thank you can go
a long way in business

R

How to handle yourself at
a networking event

Michelle Grice // Founder of Shel Design

Jane Tweedy // Western Sydney Business Centre

0412 701 147 | info@sheldesign.com.au

4721 5011 | info@wsbusiness.com.au

ecently I have come across situations where manners appear to
be severely lacking! In the big
scheme of things, exhibiting good
manners might seem like a trivial point
to quibble about. But I am inclined to
think that many of us would agree, it is
the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;little thingsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; that make a big difference.
Here are some examples of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;bad
mannersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in business I have come across
recently:
â&#x20AC;˘ Being asked to send some information and receiving no reply.
â&#x20AC;˘ Being asked to rush a task and
receiving no acknowledgement of
this favour.
â&#x20AC;˘ No response to a detailed quotation with additional information
requested by them.
All of these examples would have
required little effort to respond. Personally, I am not looking for accolades
when I do a favour! I am not expecting
a detailed, effusive response. But a
simple acknowledgement (e.g. â&#x20AC;&#x153;thanks
for sending thatâ&#x20AC;?) exhibits gratitude
and lays the groundwork for an ongoing

relationship. It is quite possible that
all of these people were grateful, but
without a response, I am left wondering
if they are in fact UNgrateful.
More importantly, a lack of response
makes me reticent to assist them in the
future. It shows a lack of respect for
my time and for our potential working
relationship. All relationships function
best when there is mutual respect, a
healthy balance of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;give and takeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, and
gratitude for what the other person
brings to the relationship.
The reasons for a lack of response to
my above examples might include â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I
forgotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have timeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not
obligated to replyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Frankly, I think all
those reasons are inexcusable! If you
always â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;forgetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, change your communication habits. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have
enough time to reply â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;thank youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in an
email, you need to examine your time
management skills. If you only respond
when you are obligated to, I am betting
you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be in business for very long!
Take your mumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advice and use your
manners: it will assist you greatly in
business and in life.

L

ast week we covered why you should
network, and where to find networking groups. Today we cover what to
do during and post the networking
event.
What to do at a networking group
â&#x20AC;˘ Walk in with a smile!
â&#x20AC;˘ Your aim of networking should be
relationship building â&#x20AC;&#x201C; get to know,
like and trust. Sales are unlikely to
happen from the first few meetings â&#x20AC;&#x201C;
this is normal!
â&#x20AC;˘ Take business cards and maybe flyers
BUT donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hand out unless requested!
â&#x20AC;˘ Typically you are greeted by organisers so they will explain how things
work and may help to connect you
with other members.
â&#x20AC;˘ Rather than stand alone look for a
group of three or more people and
politely ask to join their conversation.
â&#x20AC;˘ Some groups will have all members
introduce themselves. Prepare
versions of your elevator pitch â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from
a 10 second â&#x20AC;&#x153;one on oneâ&#x20AC;? introduction through to 30 second to two
minute group introductions.
â&#x20AC;˘ If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re new and not sure if the

meeting is reflective of normal, ask!
Sometimes events clash and numbers
are down or the normal organiser
is away. They may deserve another
chance!
After the event
â&#x20AC;˘ If you say youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll do something â&#x20AC;&#x201C; do it!
Send that article link, email or call to
arrange that coffee catch-up!
â&#x20AC;˘ Consider if the group meets your
needs. Be careful not to write off a
group too quickly, but also consider
if the ongoing time commitment is
justified. Allow for attending all meetings for that group, plus travel, plus
actioning follow ups and meetings
post event.
â&#x20AC;˘ A good policy can be not to go to
another event until youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve made all
the contacts from the last, but for core
groups try to attend every meeting.
â&#x20AC;˘ If suitable after building rapport with
the organiser, see if you can have a
speaking spot. These can be a brilliant
way to showcase your business. Make
sure the talk will provide real value to
the attendees and could have a real
benefit to your business.

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15

Tuesday, February 14, 2017 « the blue mountains record

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

SPONSORED CONTENT

Dynamic duo are
Streets ahead!

S

treetArt! – the new body of
work by Australian artist Ben
Tankard will have its opening
night on Thursday, February 16
at the new viewing premises of Anala
Art Advisory, 6 Ross Street, Glenbrook,
6-9pm.
On the back of his sell-out show in
North Sydney with Anala Art Advisory
last year, Blaxland artist Ben Tankard
has gone from strength to strength,
not only for the demand for his work,
though more importantly he has
delivered with his quality and keen
eye for detail within his re workings
and vivid interpretations of his subject
matter.
The subject matter for this fresh
and striking body of work is Ben’s
re-imaginings of the famous
Monopoly Board Game.
The imagery and text have been
inspired by elements from the Tarot,
Mexican Loteria cards, lyrics by
Radiohead, Bruce Springsteen, The
Beatles and Nick Cave, medieval
woodcuts, and other eclectic sources.
These large, pop art paintings are
colourful and dynamic, with a balance
of cynical subversion and nostalgic joy.
Using multiple layers of acrylic paint,

Anala Art Advisory
6 Ross Street, Glenbrook

0452 586 448
info@analaartadvisory.com.au
www.AnalaArtAdvisory.com.au

Ben takes the viewer back in time with
his visually stunning examples of the
nostalgic board game.
In Monopoly and in real life,
your fortune can hinge on random
chance – the roll of the dice – and these
paintings, with their unexpected and
often humorous additions, reflect that.
Owner/Director of Anala Art
Advisory, Michael Powe, has been
working closely with Ben on this
particular body of work.
The dynamic duo have been
brainstorming their creative ideas off
one another for the past five months
to deliver a show that is fresh, original,
vibrant and also invites the viewer
to draw their own conclusions while
dissecting each work thus creating
engaging commentary from all.
Michael and Ben invite you all to
attend the opening evening and take
part in the celebration of this unique
body of work that has been brilliantly
executed by one of the top emerging
artists this Country has to offer.
StreetArt will be on display from
February 16-28 at Anala Art Advisory,
6 Ross Street Glenbrook, NSW 2773.
Contact Michael for all enquiries on
0452 586 448.

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Anala Art Advisory provides impartial advice on art purchases, guiding
our clients through the complex, and often overwhelming, terrain of the
Australian art market. Whether you’re new to the market or a seasoned
collector, we provide tailored, comprehensive assistance that parallels
your interests, budget and goals”, says Founder and Director Michael
Powe.
With over 10 years’ experience in the industry, Michael Powe identified an
opportunity in the art sector to provide an outstanding advisory service to
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Anala Art Advisory has developed valued and long-standing relationships
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Combined with passion and expertise, Anala Art
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In recent years, art has become widely regarded as an alternate asset
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Anala Art Advisory couples our client’s individual aesthetic interests with
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the blue mountains record » Tuesday, February 14, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

KEEPING BLUE MOUNTAINS RESIDENTS INFORMED ON WHAT TO DO AND WHERE TO GO

When Garth
came calling
KATE REID

F

or Dean Simmons going from
an original band to a Garth
Brooks tribute artist was
simply a matter of supply and
demand.
“There’s a lot fewer people that can
do what I can do with the Garth Brooks
tribute than people that can play guitar
and sing,” he laughed.
“We were playing in honky tonks and
doing the bar scene, and doing four or five
sets a night.
“It was great and fun, but when the

opportunity came for me to do Garth, I
got to move from doing that to working in
showrooms and being a part of these big
multi-character production shows.”
In the music world the market for tribute
acts is strong, and according to Dean it’s
a pretty tight knit community, although
he does admit that things can get a little
weird when it comes to Elvis.
“You probably run into the whole identity crisis thing a little more in the ‘Elvis
world’,” he laughed.
Along with his own tribute act, Dean
has also delved into the business side of
things with his agency and production
company Top Shelf Tributes.

“Just being around all these people,
you get to know the best of the best, so I
decided to put together my own personal
collection,” he said.
“We’ve had that for about five years
now, so that’s my day job.”
This March, the entertainer and businessman will be coming to the Evan
Theatre at Panthers for the ‘Cowboys
and Angels’ tribute show which includes
performances by Kim Simmons as Shania
Twain and Adam D Tucker who takes on
the music of Tim McGraw.
Performing the music of a still touring
artist can be a little tricky. As Dean says
there’s new music to learn and you never

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batteries
repairs
&
service

really know what’s going to happen next.
“I knew all these guys that have been
doing Michael Jackson forever and boy
he sure had some ups and downs before
he passed, to the point where there were
periods of time there where people didn’t
want to see that character,” he said.
“But then with people that are gone
their legacy is what it is and you’ve got
to do your best to pay tribute to that. So
there’s pros and cons on each side.”
‘Cowboys and Angels’ will be on at the
Evan Theatre on Friday, March 3 at 8pm.
Tickets are $42.50. For more information
or to purchase tickets, visit www.penrith.
panthers.com.au or call 4720 5555.

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17

Tuesday, February 14, 2017 « the blue mountains record

OUT NOW
WON T UO
MUSIC
Thundamentals
Everyone We Know

DVD
Hell or High Water
Rated MA // KATE REID

Get ready for a good ol’ Western style
heist flick with the release of the critically
acclaimed film ‘Hell or High Water’.
Texas brothers Tanner (Ben Foster) and
Toby (Chris Pine) have been estranged
for years, but after the bank threatens to
foreclose on their family land they come
together to rob the bank that’s behind the
pending foreclosure.
Everything seems to be going to plan,
until they find Texas Ranger Marcus

CINEMA

Blue Mountains
hip hop group
Thundamentals
are
currently
celebrating two
big milestones.
The release of
their
fourth
studio
album
‘Everyone We Know’ will also be the
first project for the group’s newly created
record label High Depth.
‘Everyone We Know’ was recorded at
the studio of Hermitude in Sydney’s inner
suburbs and includes the track ‘Think
About It’, which featured on the Triple J
Hottest 100 in 2016.
The single ‘Never Say Never’ is also
getting a lot of airplay and the band have
unveiled plans for a touring art exhibit
based on the cover art.

Nathan

Taylor
TV NEWS

Fifty Shades Darker
Rated MA// KATE REID

Slip into a darker shade of grey when
‘Fifty Shades Darker’ hits cinemas this
week.
Based on the bestselling book series by
E.L James, the film is a follow up to the
2015 hit ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’, which
grossed over $560 million globally.
A cautious Ana Steele (Dakota Johnson)
is lured back into a relationship with
Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan) when he
agrees to her demands for a new arrangement.
As trust and stability begins to develop
between the pair, and Christian faces up
to his inner demons, their relationship
is threatened by shadowy figures from
Christian’s past who are determined to

ruin their chance at a future together.
Joining the cast for this much
anticipated sequel is Oscar winner Kim
Basinger, along with ‘Hannibal’ star
Hugh Dancy and Aussie Bella Heathcote.
This time around directing duties have
been taken on by James Foley, who is
best known for his work on the hit Netflix
series ‘House of Cards’.
If you’ve read the books don’t miss this
opportunity to see the story unfold on the
big screen.
‘Fifty Shades Darker’ is currently
screening at Hoyts Penrith, located
inside Westfield. For more information
on session times and to book tickets,
visit www.hoyts.com.au.

I’M A CELEBRITY... GET ME OUT OF HERE
CHANNEL TEN
Ê Emma Freedman will host a new
sports panel program for Channel Nine
called ‘Sports Sunday’. The show, which
premieres on March 5 at 10am, will
include Peter FitzSimons, Liz Ellis, Michael Slater and Neil Breen, with regular
appearances from sports stars such as
Michael Clarke, John Steffensen, David
Warner and Candice Warner.
Ê As I predicted late last year, Channel Seven has finally confirmed it has
dumped ‘The X Factor’ for 2017. After a
disappointing season which, despite the
strong talent, saw record low ratings, the
network has decided to part ways with
the singing contest after seven years.
‘The Voice’ now remains the lone singing
contest on Aussie TV.

18

(Jeff Bridges) and his partner Alberto (Gil
Birmingham) hot on their heels.
The film has been a huge hit with critics
with movie review site Rotten Tomatoes
describing ‘Hell or High Water’ as wellacted and complete with full-bodied
characters.
‘Hell or High Water’ has picked up four
Oscar nominations including Best Picture,
Best Supporting Actor, Best Original
Screenplay and Best Film Editing.

Ê The ABC’s long-running video game
show ‘Good Game’ has been axed. It’s
understood two of the presenters on
the show have signed on with Channel
Seven, prompting the ABC to call time on
the series after 10 years.

Ê It was one of the biggest shows back
in the early 2000s, now ‘Queer Eye for the
Straight Guy’ is back courtesy of Netflix.
The popular streaming service is reviving
the show after 10 years off the air. Eight
episodes of ‘Queer Eye’ will return with a
new cast later this year.
Ê Discovery is set to launch a new documentary series profiling pilots who risk
it all to help save lives at Mount Everest.
‘Everest Rescue’ premieres on Tuesday,
February 21 at 8.30pm.
Ê Former ‘MasterChef Australia’ contestants Andy Allen and Ben Milbourne
will front a new local food and travel
series for SBS Food Network. It premieres
at 9.30pm tomorrow night, February 15
on SBS Food Network.
Ê Hit Netflix show ‘Stranger Things’ will
return with season two on October 31.
Ê It was panned when it aired on Foxtel
last year, now free-to-air viewers will

get to make their mind up on the local
version of ‘Whose Line Is It Anyway?
Australia’ when it hits screens at 9pm this
Monday, February 20 on Channel Ten.

Ê I must say I love many of the contestants on this season’s ‘I’m a Celebrity… Get
Me Out Of Here’. But did you know, for
many of the celebs, this isn’t the first time
they’ve appeared on a reality TV show.
Olympian Lisa Curry and model Tegan
Martin both appeared on ‘The Celebrity
Apprentice Australia’; Casey Donovan
was made famous by winning ‘Australian
Idol’; Ash Pollard began her TV career on
‘My Kitchen Rules’ before appearing on
‘Dancing with the Stars’; Jay Laga’aia was
on ‘Celebrity Big Brother’ back in 2002;
Nat Bass was a judge on ‘The X Factor’
and host of ‘So You Think You Can Dance
Australia’; Tziporah Malkah (Kate Fischer) was on weight loss show ‘Celebrity
Overhaul’ and duet singing show ‘It Takes
Two’; and even host Julia Morris won the
first series of ‘The Celebrity Apprentice
Australia’ and also won ‘It Takes Two’.

the blue mountains record » Tuesday, February 14, 2017

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Create words of four letters or more using the given letters once only, but always including the middle letter. Do not
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15 Good

Last week’s solution

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life

THE MOUNTAINS’ BEST LINE-UP
OF LIFESTYLE EXPERTS

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

your horoscopes

With Venus and Mars vamping through
your sign, it’s the perfect time to flutter
your eyelashes and ask for what you
want. Then sit back and reap the romantic
rewards on Valentine’s Day. Singles –
don’t settle for second best. Be patient
and wait for your perfect match to appear.
As Keira Knightley observes, “I think
every girl is looking for her Mr Darcy”.
Thursday is fabulous for communicating
with others in proactive/exciting ways.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Romance is in the air but the energy
is behind the scenes suggesting a
private, magical Valentine’s Day. Single
Bulls – amazing signs and unexpected
synchronicities could lead you to your
true love. So keep your intuition welltuned. A work project or job prospect has
real potential. But it will take plenty of
hard work and patience to turn it into a
long-term success.

When it comes to romance, marriage and
close partnerships, Saturn is constantly
reminding you about your current duties
and responsibilities. But this week,
when it comes to love, make sure you
have plenty of fun. Your quote is from
writer George Sand, “There is only one
happiness in life, to love and be loved”.
Thursday favours commerce, social
media, group activities and international
connections.

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

At the moment, with purposeful and
passionate Pluto moving slowly through
your relationship zone, love is a deadly
serious business. So your quote for Valentine’s Day is from writer William Barclay,
“Love always involves responsibility, and
love always involves sacrifice”. Single
Crabs – it’s time to give superficial suitors
the flick. Instead, look for a lover who has
real character, depth and substance.

LEO

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

Coupled Cats – find a dream you and your
partner can share together. Then put
time, effort and hard work into making
that dream come true. “Love does not
consist of gazing at each other, but of
looking outward together in the same
direction” – Antoine St Exupery. Single
Lions – with romance planet Venus
visiting your travel zone, love is likely
with someone from a foreign country or
culture.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Whether you’re attached, searching
for your soul mate, or happily single,
Valentine’s Day is an appropriate time
to reflect on the fact that love really
does make the world go around. And
love is definitely the glue that binds
us all together. Thursday’s marvellous
Mercury/Mars connection highlights your
natural ability to think of a fabulous idea,
do the research, and then act on it.

LIBRA

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

With Mars and Venus both travelling
through your partnership zone, prepare
for a bold and beautiful Valentine’s Day.
Coupled Librans – why not organise a
special romantic rendezvous with your
partner? Singles – in order to find true
love, you need to be brave and step out of
your comfort zone. So your motto is from
Lao Tzu, “Being deeply loved by someone
gives you strength, while loving someone
deeply gives you courage”.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

Focus your attention on your lover, as you
give them the right royal romantic treatment on Valentine’s Day. Singles – love
and work are linked in surprising ways.
When it comes to money matters, are you
feeling less than abundant? The positive
Sun/Saturn link encourages you to work
towards a financial goal with passion and
persistence. Be inspired by birthday great
Michael Jordan.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

Have you got a pile of projects that you’ve
started and never completed? This week
the Sun and Saturn boost motivation and
concentration, so you can bring a project
to a final conclusion. Don’t waste the
opportunity! And with Venus and Mars
both visiting your romance zone, you’re
set for a sweet and sexy Valentine’s Day.
Romantic music, stylish surroundings
and gourmet food are calling. Sparks
could fly with an Aries or a lusty Leo.

the blue mountains record » Tuesday, February 14, 2017

your

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

When it comes to finding or maintaining
true love, resist the urge to be overly
controlling. Coupled Capricorns – avoid
the temptation to be bossy at home. Give
your spouse more space. Singles – stop
looking for love in all the obvious places.
Write a wish-list of all the important
qualities you desire in a dream partner.
Then sit back and wait for the magic to
happen.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Don’t take your partner – or potential
partner – for granted! If you do, then
your neglected lover may go looking for
attention elsewhere. So take the time
to plan something uniquely special this
Valentine’s Day. Single Aquarius – it
doesn’t really matter what a potential
partner looks like, or how much money
they make. You need a romantic mate
who is also a friend. So go out and find
one!

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Attached Fish – you’re feeling extra
romantic as you lavish attention (and
money) on your partner; wear your heart
on your sleeve, or play out a secret fantasy
with your lover. Single Pisces – don’t base
your self-esteem on whether or not you
have a partner. You have a multitude
of talents, and a compassionate nature.
Finding your soul mate is just the icing on
an already spectacular cake!

Quality Tree Removal Services

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Tuesday, February 14, 2017 « the blue mountains record

your

food

How eating at home can
help you become healthier
We all love eating out,
but finding that same
passion for dining in can
be the first step to gaining
a healthier, happier
lifestyle...

Kate Reid
Nutritionist
kate.reid@
westernweekender.com.au
@kate_reid6

With the recognition that most people
who lose weight on diets end up putting
the weight back on, it’s good to see that
our focus has started to move to action
(making healthy choices) rather than
outcome (weight loss).
This coming week is Healthy Weight
Week, and while the name is probably in
need of a makeover, the advice is focused
on realistic behaviour change that we can
all benefit from.
The Dietitians Association of Australia
have one simple message with this initiative – do more cooking and less eating
out.
The reason for this is simple – preparing
meals at home allows us to know exactly
what goes into our food and helps us
to control our portions. I’m sure all of
us have had dining experiences where
we’ve eaten way more than we needed
simply because it was there.
Now encouraging people to cook is
all well and good, but it’s important
to address the main barriers that keep
people out of the kitchen.

Generally this falls into one of two
categories: lack of time or lack of drive.
For those that say time is the factor
keeping them from cooking more often
my advice is boring but effective: preparation, preparation, preparation.
This can be as simple as making a
double serve of dinner to take for lunch,
chopping veggies or salad in bulk so the
prep work is done in advance, or learning
a couple of healthy meals that can be
cooked in large portions and frozen or
kept for the coming days.
Lack of drive is a tricky one, and something I can sympathise with.
While I’ve always loved food I never felt
confident enough in my cooking skills

to make meals that would keep my taste
buds satisfied.
How did I get out of this mindset? I
enlisted the help of my more culinaryinclined friends. I picked their brain for
cooking tips, gathered a collection of
quick and easy recipes and now have
enough healthy and delicious go-to meals
up my sleeve that I often prefer eating at
home.
Start simple and you may find you too
will develop a newfound passion for
cooking.
For more information on Healthy Weight
Week, including events, recipes and meal
plans, visit www.healthyweightweek.
com.au.

WINE LIST

Pure quality

W

Serving variations of the classic Philadelphia Cheesesteak.
We also offer a unique range of loaded Factory Fries,
American soft drinks, American confectionary, milkshakes,
coffee and tea.
Head to our website, www.thecheesesteakfactory.com.au
for our full menu or check out our Facebook page.
For enquiries and phone orders: 4701 6211
Shop 4, 297 Great Western Highway Lawson.
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 11:00am-8:00pm
Sunday: 11:00am-7:00pm
WW26310

22

WE TAKE THE FINEST SCOTCH FILLET STEAK, GRILL UNTIL TENDER,
LAY IT ON A FRESHLY BAKED BREAD ROLL, FILL WITH TOPPINGS OF YOUR
CHOICE AND FINISH WITH OUR SIGNATURE AMERICAN CHEESE SAUCE

hen you’ve paid $130 for a bottle of red
you’ve obviously something pretty
special in mind to do with it, such as
a mate who bought his for next Christmas Eve –
which will be his 75th birthday and 50th wedding
anniversary that both fall on December 24.
And the $130 drop he’s just put aside for his very
special Night Before Christmas? It’s a 2013 Wolf
Blass Luxury Collection Black Label Cabernet
Sauvignon Shiraz Malbec, without doubt one of
the most exceptional blends from South Australia’s
Langhorne Creek, McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley,
and first created by Wolf back in 1973 in his early
pursuit of crafting “the perfect wine”.
Rich and concentrated when young, all wines
in the Black Label range reward with wonderfully
balanced flavours from the start, and go on to
develop intricate complexity, further intensity of
fruit, and captivating structure over the years.
The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz Malbec is
an outstanding drop for very special occasions,
rewarding all with whom you share it with layers of
rich fruit, a smoothness that’s velvet-like, and with
stand-out beautifully chocolate tannins.
One to note: Andrew Margan used fruit off mature
but low-yielding vines on the unique soils of the
Hunter Valley’s Fordwich Sill area for his wonderfully rewarding and now-available 2016 Margan
Chardonnay (pictured).
Pay $20 and as Andrew suggests, match with a
summer-time’s seared scallops with jamon serrano
watercress, hazelnut and blackcurrant vinaigrette.

DAVID ELLIS

health

Causes and treatments
for painful ingrown nails

the blue mountains record » Tuesday, February 14, 2017

your

Ingrown nails can be
very painful, but it’s
important to understand
the cause so you can work
on a solution with your
Podiatrist...

Onychocryptosis, more commonly
known as an ingrown nail, is one of the
most common complaints we see as
Podiatrists.
Signs and symptoms of an ingrown nail
include:
• Pain or tenderness of the affected side
• Redness
• Inflammation
Causes:
Incorrect cutting of nails: A good
general rule to follow is to cut straight
across the top of the nail. Cutting down
the sides can tend to cause irritation as
the nail grows through.
Natural shape of the nail: Involuted
(curved) nails often dive deep down the
nail sulcus, causing irritation and inflammation. Occasionally the nail plate can be
too wide for the space it has to grow and
therefore it sits underneath the skin.
Footwear: Tight fitting footwear around
the forefoot area can irritate the nail
sulcus and cause inflammation around
the nail plate.
Family history: As with many things, if

there is a family history of ingrown nails
you will be at a greater risk of developing
them yourself.
When left for a long period of time,
the risk of the area becoming infected
increases, so it is important to manage in
an efficient manner. First-line treatment
involves clearing of the side of nail that is
causing the pain and inflammation.
Whilst conservative care is a good way
to manage ingrown nails, in some situations it is best to look at a more long-term
solution for recurring ingrown nails to
resolve the issue entirely.
As Podiatrists we are able to carry out

nail surgery which is otherwise known as
a ‘partial nail avulsion’.
This treatment involves numbing of
the affected toe with an injection of local
anaesthetic. The nail portion causing the
irritation is then removed, along with
cauterisation of the nail matrix with a
chemical called phenol.
If successful, the portion of nail that
was removed will no longer grow back,
resolving the pain associated with the
ingrown nail.
If you or anyone in your family is experiencing the above symptoms, contact
OnePointHealth on 4732 5188.

Valentine’s Day is nearly here.
Whether you’re not really a fan of
celebrating the occasion or absolutely
love it, there will always be a place in our
hearts for the romantic and girly side to
dressing the part!
No matter what date you have lined up
for Valentine’s Day there’s an outfit waiting for you to feel special in.
Pay attention to details, if your special
someone is planning to take you out to
dinner or lunch for Valentine’s Day, pick
a floral slip dress to wear, added bonus
points if you find one in a rose print fabric!
Slip dresses are trending right now in a
big way and they are easy to wear, versatile enough you can even throw on some
sneakers and wear an edgier white t-shirt
under the strappy number.
Pair back with chunky heeled sandals in
a nude beige colour and for a pretty touch
add frilly white socks!
If Valentine’s Day date night involves a
movie, channel a flirtier look with a luxe
beaded skirt and black over the knee
boots. The bold colour red and soft pinks
are perfect colours for the event.

Witchery has in-store at Westfield
Penrith a gorgeous bright crimson silk
tie neck blouse to complete this outfit,
making sure legs are a focus and not too
much skin is showing!
Valentine’s Day shouldn’t be limited to
just boyfriends and husbands, invite the
girls over, why not have a fun cooking
night and share a homemade chocolate
dessert together!

Stay comfy and stylish and opt for a pair
of cascading dress pants.
Try the Crepe Wide Leg Pants in black at
Cue made from beautiful European fabric
with pleats that fall from the waistband,
a sleek patent belt adds a nice polished
touch, match with a pair of pump heels
in a pop of classic red – Saint Valentine
would definitely approve!
Have a fun Valentine’s Day!

EXQUISITE LANDMARK HERITAGE BUILDING
Macquarie Commercial in Penrith have been
appointed to offer for sale ‘Badger House’
– originally known as ‘Cholderton’ back in
the early 1900s – an historic feature within
the Blue Mountains landscape. Home to
Rick Rutherford’s Country – The Australian
Country Collections Shoppe which was
established here in October 2007. There are
many specially-themed rooms of Badger
House and visitors discover something to

take home from the selection of Australia’s
largest range of beautiful homewares and
gifts . . . many of which have been specially
selected and imported and are unique to this
very special Blue Mountains’ destination.
Property details include:
• Prime 1,303sqm site
• Well maintained example of early 20th
century architecture
• Existing use rights for commercial use

• Currently operating as Rick Rutherford’s
Country
• Commercial kitchen & toilet facilities
• Potential to split property into two
tenancies
• Excellent access from the Great Western
Highway
• Outdoor dining area
• 10 display rooms
• Extremely rare offering & a must to inspect!

Boxes $
from

2

Contact: Matthew Neale
0420 808 349
Macquarie Commercial

142 Old
Bathurst Rd
Emu Plains
PH

4735 7000
www.hitchens.com.au

WW26468

25

Tuesday, February 14, 2017 « the blue mountains record

29 Brookdale Terrace,
Glenbrook
5

3

2

LUXURIOUS
ARCHITECTURALLY
DESIGNED FAMILY HOME
• Brand new gourmet kitchen with European
appliances and Caesarstone benchtops
• Brand new designer bathrooms with Italian
tiles and quality ﬁttings
• Five large bedrooms with built-in robes
• Two separate living areas offer space for
the family
• Ducted air conditioning and gorgeous
Spotted Gum ﬂooring
• Sophisticated design and ﬂoor plan
• Sought after location on the village side of
Glenbrook

• Build your dream home with space to
spare on land already registered
• Land size is 662sqm (approx.) set on
the high side of the street
• DA approved plans for outstanding
family homes available should you be
interested
For Sale
Viewing
Contact
Address

Family Home On Large Corner Block
This large 3 bedroom family home sits proudly
on a 792sqm (approx.) corner block in the
highly sought after Emu Plains.
Featuring built ins to two bedrooms, split
system air conditioning, multiple living areas
including a massive rumpus room and a nicely
presented bathroom with separate toilet - you
can rest assured you will be living in comfort
all year long.
For all the entertainers out there, this home

www.nepean.harcourts.com.au

has a great undercover area with BBQ which
overlooks the yard and beyond that - the
stunning Penrith Valley.
The potential for a granny flat or swimming
pool (STCA) is yet another great asset to this
home.
Complete with a double carport, storage of
multiple vehicles will not be a problem.
Call us today to secure a time to inspect this
property.
WW26703

1

2

Price Guide:
$639,000 - $689,000

Adam & Danii Leatherbarrow
Mobile: 0414 366 857

Nepean

27

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28

Tuesday, February 14, 2017 Â« the blue mountains record

Blue Mountains Record

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POSITIONS VACANT

PUBLIC NOTICES

AUTO DISMANTLER

WESTERN WEEKENDER LETTERS
TO THE EDITOR
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condition that The Western Weekender may edit them,
without affecting the overall message or intent of the
letter. The Western Weekender reserves the right to
publish letters in other publications.

“When you lose the ones you love,
support will come from angels above”

COPYRIGHT
Content in this publication belongs to Western
Sydney Publishing Group, publishers of The
Western Weekender, or its licensors, advertisers or
affiliates. All content in this publication is protected by
Australian and international copyright laws.

ETHICAL AND ACCURATE CONTENT
The Western Weekender operates under a code
covering both ethics and accuracy. If you believe
either have been compromised in relation to editorial
or advertising content that appears in this publication,
you should initially contact the Managing Editor.

EDUCATION & TRAINING
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Hydraulink Australia are looking for Hose
Service Technicians for an immediate start
Must be Trade’s qualified, or equivalent
and have mechanical work history
with some level of hydraulic systems
knowledge.
We will provide you with the product, WHS and customer relationship training.
If you would like to know more visit our website for a full presentation video
detailing the company and the work role, www.hydraulink.com.au
To apply, send your resume through to employment@hydraulink.com.au

required for busy wreckers in the
Blue Mountains area
Must have driver’s licence
Contact Peter on 0415 221 260

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lympian Jessica Fox is back in Sydney and preparing for her next big
race at the Australian Open in Penrith this month.
The former Blaxland High student, who
qualified for the World Championships when
she came first at the Oceania Championships
in Auckland last month, said the pressure is
somewhat off heading into the Penrith event.
“Because I won the title in Auckland and
qualified for the World Championships later
this year, I won’t need to be as cautious at the
Australian Open,” Fox said.
“Now I will be able to take some risks on the
course and won’t have to worry about being
penalised and losing time.”
Fox, who is currently studying a Social Science Degree, said she is excited to be competing again in Penrith but is more nervous about
the university exam she has to do the day before the competition starts.
“I’ve got a statistics exam on the day before
the Australian Open, so I’m more nervous
about that than anything else,” she said.
The highly anticipated Australian Open is on
from February 17 to 19 at Penrith Whitewater
Stadium.
Jessica Fox will be competing at Penrith Whitewater Stadium from February 17 to 19